Banana county that draws its beauty from stone carvings
Men in a quarry in Kisii County harvest soapstone that will be used to make carvings. FILE
What you need to know:
- The indomitable will of these people driving the economy of the county is aptly captured in the millions of impressive artifacts carved out of the famed Tabaka soapstone.
- “We would wish that the artists benefit fully from their products and this can be done if they can be empowered to make polished products that meet international standards,” Mr Ong’esa told the Nation.
Few things, it seems, epitomise the beauty and resilience of the banana county of Kisii, than the energy and zest of the hundreds of soapstone workers in South Mugirango, who spend hours carving lovely artifacts.
Yet, the Tabaka soapstone story mirrors just but a quarter of the narratives that tell of the heroism of the 1.3 million people that make up the county.
The indomitable will of these people driving the economy of the county is aptly captured in the millions of impressive artifacts carved out of the famed Tabaka soapstone.
A 30-minute ride from Kisii town brings us face-to-face with the scenic, picturesque rolling landscape of the land famed for its carvings.
Sculptors, among them women, are seen in several quarries, turning shapeless stones into polished curios.
Acclaimed international stone carver, Elikana Ong’esa, says the Kisii soapstone industry holds the key to the success story of the Abagusii community if well tapped.
At a recent conference where Mr Onge’sa was in attendance, a roadmap to patent the stone and establish an industry that will add value to items produced by the artists was discussed.
MEET INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
“We would wish that the artists benefit fully from their products and this can be done if they can be empowered to make polished products that meet international standards,” Mr Ong’esa told the Nation.
“Already, Tabaka soapstone carvings hold candle to none in Kenya’s art scene and efforts need to be taken to leverage the efforts of the artists, majority of whom don’t seem to be making much headway,” he added.
Already, there are large, extensive and rich deposits of the rare stone yet to be exploited, says Mr David Ogata, a geography teacher at Nyabigege Secondary.
“Not even a quarter has been exhausted,” he said pointing to the rolling hills that run from Nyakembene hill to Ichuni, a scene that provides an unobstructed view of Lake Victoria to the west for nature lovers.
“If a resort was put up here, it would provide a good retreat for visitors who may want to savour the beauty of this place.”
Mr Ogata said the picturesque hills and waterfalls along River Kucha can be tapped for tourism.
Governor James Ongwae says Kisii offers much scope for medium and long term growth backed by a strong agricultural sector, planned transport links and an optimistic population.
